shark researchfnq release

8/2/2019 Shark ResearchFNQ Release

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8 Palmer St reet , South Melbourne, Vict oria 3205

T (03) 9690 2171 F (03) 9696 1437 E [email protected] W www.connexionpr.com.au

Bob Cart er + Associat es Ltd

ABN 32 006 435 785

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Yamaha Powers Vital Shark Research

A dedicated team of researchers

studying the migratory behaviour of

sharks has selected Yamaha four

stroke power for their primary

research vessel. Operating on the

environmentally sensitive Great

Barrier Reef, the low emission

qualities of the Yamaha F150

makes this outboard the perfect

choice for the shark scientists.

In a joint program that involves the

Australasian Natural History Unit,

CSIRO Marine Research and

Undersea Explorer, researchers

are studying the movement

patterns of sharks in the far

northern area of the Great Barrier

Reef.

Shark researcher and cinematographer Richard Fitzpatrick’s project involvesthe tagging and tracking of Grey Whalers, Whitetip Reef Sharks and Tiger

Sharks in an effort to better understand their behaviour and ultimately to

protect these species. Through over fishing, the shark population worldwide

is declining.

The Yamaha powered research boat is principally used to capture and then

tag sharks. The large Tiger capture technique involves attracting sharks tothe side of the boat using bait. As the shark approaches, a tail clamp is

applied to the shark’s tail using a 3m pole.



Once the shark is captured, it is secured alongside the research vessel to

have a lightweight satellite tag fastened to the dorsal fin. The tracking pack

comprises a satellite transmitter, long life batteries, aerial and saltwater

switch. When the shark’s fin breaks out of the water, a unique identifying

code is transmitted via satellite to a receiving station where the tag’s position

is calculated. The research scientists in Australia receive the positions and

plot the shark’s movements.

The longest transmission duration to date has been 14 months. The vast

distances travelled by sharks has amazed researchers.

In selecting a Yamaha four stroke outboard to power the Osprey research

boat, Richard Fitzpatrick said that the over-riding appeal of the Yamaha is that

they just go when you need them to.

“When you are chasing a 4m Tiger Shark you definitely need a reliable

motor,” Richard said. “The reliability is a major safety factor in the high risk

work we do, particularly in the remote areas of the far northern Great Barrier

Reef and the Coral Sea.”

“The Yamaha four stroke is powerful, economical and beautifully quiet, all big

plusses for our long days at sea.”

In support of the research work being undertaken, the process has been

filmed and made into a documentary series for television.

Prior to specifying a Yamaha outboard for their work, the team undertook

some research of their own on various outboard brands. They quickly

discovered that tourism vessels and boats operated by Queensland National

Parks are mostly Yamaha powered.

Brett Shorthouse, filmmaker on the research project, added that past personalexperience also played a big part in the decision.



“We’ve been using Yamaha outboards for nearly ten years on various work

boats,” Brett said.

“They have been subjected to a really hard life, enduring many months at sea

in all kinds of weather, both inshore and offshore. The Yamaha engines have

performed flawlessly. Moreover the back up support from Yamaha dealers

has been first rate.”

Commenting on their support of the researchers, Yamaha’s National Sales

and Marketing Manager Brett Hampson said that his company’s support of

their work was a privilege.

“We’re delighted to be playing our part and assisting in this vital work,” Brett

said. “Yamaha fully supports any projects that help conserve and protect the

marine environment. It’s extremely important to us and our customers.”

Yamaha outboards are available through an Australia-wide network of

authorised Yamaha outboard dealers. All Yamaha 4-stroke outboards are

supported with a full 4-year manufacturer’s warranty and all 2-stroke

outboards are backed by a 3 year warranty – standard conditions apply.

For further information contact:

Brett HampsonNational Sales & Marketing Manager

Marine Products

Yamaha Motor AustraliaPh: (07) 3906 7000Fax: (07) 3906 7099www.yamaha-motor.com.au

For further information on the shark documentary go to:http://digitaldimensions.com.au/Shark%20Coast.html

shark researchfnq release

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